What is the right age for my child’s first dental visit?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit the dentist by his/her 1^st birthday. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and their staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less you say concerning the visit, the better. It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, pull, drill or hurt. Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child. 

Here at Lakes Park Children's Dentistry & Orthodontics, we strive to create a warm and kid-friendly environment. Age appropriate movies play in the lobby to entertain and relax your child before the start of the appointment. Each exam room has a TV on the ceiling with a wide selection of cartoons to distract from any anxiety your child may feel. At the end of the appointment, children receive a goody bag of dental supplies and a golden token for the treasure chest, where they can collect a prize!